Family Adventure in Tromsø: Chasing the Northern Lights

First Day in Tromsø: History, Nature, and Delicious Discoveries

Our Tromsø adventure began today, and what a start it has been! Leaving the comfort of our apartment at Enter City Apartment Hotel, we plunged headfirst into the heart of this Arctic city. From exploring the gripping tales of polar explorers to wandering through a unique botanical garden, Tromsø has already captivated us with its blend of history and natural beauty. And of course, no adventure is complete without savoring the local cuisine, which we made sure to do!


Discover comfort and convenience at Enter City Apartment Hotel, your perfect base in Tromso for exploring stunning attractions and winter sports.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Egon Tromsø. I must admit, as someone who appreciates a good atmosphere, I was immediately drawn to the maritime-themed interior. It reminded me a bit of Sjömagasinet in Gothenburg, with its large wooden beams and quirky artifacts. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Astrid was particularly excited about the pancakes, and Maximilian enjoyed a classic Norwegian breakfast of smoked salmon and eggs.


Experience local flavors and international cuisine at Egon Tromsø - where Arctic charm meets culinary excellence.

Our first stop was the Polar Museum. As a librarian specializing in Nordic literature, I've always been fascinated by the stories of the Arctic explorers. Stepping into the museum felt like stepping back in time. The exhibits vividly portrayed the lives of the trappers and the harrowing journeys of discovery. I was particularly moved by the story of Roald Amundsen and his expeditions. His determination and courage in the face of unimaginable challenges are truly inspiring. Astrid, surprisingly, was very interested in the stuffed polar bears and seals, although I had to gently explain the realities of Arctic hunting to her.


Explore the rich history of Arctic exploration at The Polar Museum in Tromsø - a captivating destination for culture and history enthusiasts.

The Arctic whispers tales of bravery, resilience, and the delicate beauty of a world shaped by ice and snow.

After immersing ourselves in the history of the Arctic, we decided to explore the natural beauty of Tromsø at the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden. Despite being January, and with the garden covered in snow, it was a unique experience. I’ve read that during the summer months, this garden is a riot of color, showcasing Arctic and alpine plants from around the world. Even under a blanket of snow, the landscape was serene and peaceful. It was fascinating to imagine the vibrant flora hidden beneath the snow, patiently waiting for the return of the sun. Astrid enjoyed running around in the snow, pretending to be an Arctic explorer herself.


Discover the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden in Tromsø, a serene escape showcasing stunning Arctic and alpine plant species in a breathtaking setting.

As the day progressed, we took a detour to Tromsø Gift & Souvenir Shop AS. Of course, we couldn't resist picking up a few mementos of our trip. I found a beautiful hand-knitted Lopapeysa, an Icelandic sweater, which will be perfect for keeping warm during the rest of our Arctic adventure. Maximilian bought a small model of a Viking ship for his desk at Volkswagen, and Astrid chose a plush puffin toy.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Tromsø Gift & Souvenir Shop AS, your go-to destination for authentic Arctic mementos.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Bardus Bistro. The bistro offered a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, and the menu was a celebration of local ingredients. I opted for the reindeer stew, a traditional Sami dish, while Maximilian enjoyed the fresh cod. Astrid, always a fan of simple flavors, had a delicious bowl of fish soup. It was fascinating to learn that Bardus Bistro prides itself on using ingredients sourced almost exclusively from the Tromsø region.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Bardus Bistro in Tromsø - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

In the evening, we treated ourselves to a seafood feast at Arctandria SjømatRestaurant. Located on the second floor of Vertshuset Skarven, the restaurant offered stunning views of the harbor. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the menu was a seafood lover's dream. I savored the grilled Arctic char, while Maximilian indulged in the king crab. Astrid, adventurous as always, tried a small portion of whale meat, a local delicacy. The meal was a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Arctic cuisine at Arctandria SjømatRestaurant, where fresh seafood meets stunning views in Tromsø.

As I reflect on our first day in Tromsø, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the days to come. This city has already captured my heart with its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. I am eager to see what other adventures await us. Tomorrow, we plan to ascend Fjellheisen for panoramic views of Tromsø and visit the iconic Tromsø Cathedral. I also hope we can find some time to visit the Magic Ice Bar. It sounds like a truly unique experience!

Before I close for the night, I must mention a funny incident that happened at the souvenir shop. I was so engrossed in examining a beautiful piece of Sami jewelry that I almost forgot my reusable water bottles, one of our trip essentials. Maximilian, ever the practical one, reminded me just in time. It seems I'm still getting used to packing for family trips! It was also a good reminder that I had forgotten the travel adapter back in Hannover. I will need to buy one tomorrow.

Tromsø is proving to be an unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all. Until tomorrow, takk fyrir í dag! (Thank you for today!)